Otavalo

After more than a month in Colombia we crossed the border into Ecuador.  Otavalo is a logical stop over with world renowned art and craft markets, great hikes through the northern Andes and vibrant indigenous culture.

Colored chickens?!?

The 14km walk around Cuicocha Lake (a volcanic lake) was our first glimpse at Andean heathland. 

A big bonus on the hike was the indigenous blueberry fruiting and ripe, providing well needed sustenance along the way!

On a hilltop overlooking the town of Otavalo we made a visit to Parque Condor - a zoo of birds of prey.  We were able to see several species that are difficult if not impossible to see in the wild...such as the Harpy Eagle (the world largest eagle species).

And the amazing Condor!

This male Bald Eagle was the star of the flight demonstration with his amazing aerial acrobatics.